Gore Ethiopia: A Hidden Gem You Need to Visit!
A Childhood of Wanderlust: My Love for Travel Began Early
My love for travel started long before I even knew what wanderlust meant. As a child growing up in Ethiopia, my world was already filled with movement—visiting family in different parts of the country, exploring new places during school breaks, and constantly being on the go. I was an energetic and curious child, always seeking adventure. Whether it was swimming, biking, running, or playing volleyball, handball, and tennis, I thrived on activity. That spirit of adventure never left me—it only grew stronger with time.
Among all the places I’ve visited, two hold a special place in my heart: the Bale Mountains and a small town called Gore. These places are not just destinations to me; they are deeply woven into my childhood memories, shaping my appreciation for nature, history, and the beauty of Ethiopia.
Gore: The Hidden Gem of Ethiopia
Gore, a town nestled in southwestern Ethiopia’s Illubabor Zone, was once the capital of Ethiopia. Today, it remains a breathtakingly beautiful place, known for its lush landscapes, vast forests, and rich agricultural heritage. The town is famous for its Sor Waterfall, expansive coffee farms, and the sprawling Gummaro tea plantation, one of the largest in the country.
But for me, Gore was much more than its landmarks—it was the home of my grandfather, a place where I felt deeply connected to nature. His house sat perched on a cliff, surrounded by towering trees, coffee plantations, and flowing water streams. Every morning, I would wake to the haunting yet soothing calls of the Mantled guereza, the black-and-white colobus monkeys that inhabited the forests. I would step outside, take in the crisp, cool air, and gaze down at the tea plantation below, often shrouded in mist. The entire landscape felt like something out of a dream—green, untouched, and impossibly serene.
The Gumero tea plantation, which stretched as far as the eye could see, was a sight I will never forget. Seeing it blanketed by the morning clouds made it feel almost mystical. The entire region smelled of damp earth, fresh leaves, and the unmistakable aroma of coffee blossoms. Life in Gore was simple yet deeply fulfilling. Even as a child, I knew this place was special.
A Desire to Return
Looking back, I realize how much those early travels shaped me into who I am today—an outgoing, vibrant, and endlessly curious person who finds joy in movement and discovery. I’ve traveled far and wide since then, but there’s something about Gore that keeps calling me back. Maybe it’s the nostalgia, maybe it’s the raw beauty of the place, or maybe it’s the deep-rooted connection I feel to my family’s history there.
One of these days, I will return—not just to see how much has changed but to relive the memories, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and wake up once again to the sound of the colobus monkeys calling from the treetops.
Until then, I carry those memories with me, fueling my passion for travel and my endless desire to see more of the world.
Have you ever visited a place that left an unforgettable mark on you? I’d love to hear about it! Let’s share our travel stories.
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